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How much Universal Credit (UC) will I get?

Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit payment for people of working-age who are on a low income, out of work or can't work.

Last reviewed 25 February 2026

How much Universal Credit you can get will depend on the income and circumstances of all the household members. Use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator to find out what you may be entitled to when you claim Universal Credit.

Use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator

In working out your Universal Credit award, firstly your household’s maximum Universal Credit award is calculated. This will be made up of one standard allowance and any additional elements that apply.

Universal Credit Standard Allowance

Your standard allowance will depend on whether you are single or claiming as a couple, and your age. There is one standard allowance for your household:

  • Single claimant aged under 25: £316.98 per month
  • Single claimant aged 25 or over: £400.14 per month
  • Joint claimants both aged under 25: £497.55 per month
  • Joint claimants either aged 25 or over: £628.10 per month

There are additional elements of Universal Credit such as childcare and housing costs elements that can be added to your standard allowance. 

The same person cannot get a LCWRA element as well as a Carer element even if they are eligible for both.

Universal Credit award

If your household has no earnings, other income, capital or savings, the Universal Credit award you receive will be your maximum Universal Credit award (one standard allowance plus any additional elements) unless you are affected by the Benefit Cap. ​

If anyone in your household has earnings, other income, savings or capital, these will need to be taken into account to work out the Universal Credit award you may receive.

See our Universal Credit income and capital guide for further details.

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